With the news abuzz these days with how retail in Orchard Road is experiencing a decline in footfall and tourists receipts, it's no surprise that tenants in the vicinity are devising new ways to entice consumers to shop, dine or simply chill out over a cup of coffee; or in this case, a freshly brewed pot of tea. At Steamroom with The Pillar and Stones (SRPS), that's where you can experience a unique three-in-one concept, that's part 'kaffatea' room or Steamroom, part restaurant - The Pillar, and art space - Stones; hence the name.

Stepping into SRPS, the first thing that catches your attention are the 'steampunkish' contraptions used to brew the selection of 11 teas (priced at $7.50 per pot), which are split into four categories: Black Tea, Pu-er, Oolong and Green Tea. This unique brewing system creates a gentle bubbling or agitation of the tea leaves to produce a more well-balanced flavor profile (a plus-point for those who dislike over-brewed tea). We tried the Keemun Kung Fu Red Tea which has a lighter flavor and is more gentle on the taste buds while the Lapsang Souchong tea has a bolder and more smoky flavour.

Start your meal with the appetizers. Diners who prefer something raw can go for the Angus Beef Tartare ($16) that's well diced and seasoned with Dijonnaise. The tasty Burrata Cheese Salad ($15) is a must-order as it comes with a bit of crunch with Sun-dried tomatoes and olive caviar to boot. The Toss-it-up Fried ($12) lacked crispiness and were a little lacklustre.

If you're feeling under the weather, the soupy Salmon Ochazuke ($24) will warm you up nicely with its flavorful smoked tea dashi, nutritious edamame and salmon caviar that just pops in your mouth. Be sure to share the Lobster Fregola Sarda Pasta ($28) with a friend or two. The chewy Sardinian pasta is well cooked in the lobster broth with generous portions of crab meat. Stir in the runny onsen egg with the shaved Parmesan and the dish can get a little too overbearingly rich and creamy for one. If that's the case, order the vegetarian Pottimaron Pumpkin Risotto ($22) that's a lot less creamy.

When it comes to desserts, SRPS doesn't disappoint. Inspired by Red ($14) makes a good after-meal treat with its sweet strawberry mousse and meringue paired with a raspberry sorbet, but we prefer the Chocolate Gateau and Mandarin Orange Sorbet ($15) that's neither too sweet nor citrusy with a refreshing touch of mint.

Steamroom with The Pillar and Stones

181 Orchard Road

#03-08

Orchard Central

Operating Hours:

Daily: 10am - 10pm

Written and photographed by Stanley Lui.

A fashion blogger who is also an avid food lover at heart, Stanley Lui has written for luxury titles like Senatus, Robb Report, Singapore Tatler and HungryGoWhere. When he's not busy sussing out the latest food trends and hot new restaurants, he can be found sipping champagne and gobbling up canapes at the latest fashion event. Read more from Stanley at http://fashionide.com.